GUNPOWDER GRAY | RC CAR
Gunpowder Gray paint gives RC bodies a clean, modern finish. This project shows how good pearl gray can look.
We are stoked to share this build by Steven Butkus. He used our Gunpowder Gray Solid Pearl with Createx Paint.
The pearl layout stays smooth and consistent. The tone looks sharp in photos and real light.
Gunpowder Gray Solid Pearl RC Car Paint: 5 Reasons It Stands Out
Gunpowder Gray Solid Pearl is a sleek pearl gray. It gives small bodies a full-size show look.
Soft shimmer adds motion as the car moves. The finish stays clean and not overly flashy.
- Gunpowder Gray paint delivers a modern gray tone with controlled pearl.
- Neutral color makes decals and graphics pop.
- Lighting looks great indoors and outdoors.
- Coats build coverage without muddying the pearl.
- Clearcoat depth adds a premium gloss.
Installer: Steven Butkus
Pigments needed for this look:
Like our other pearl pigments, Gunpowder Gray works in many materials. Use it in automotive paint systems and epoxy resin.
It also works in nail polish and plastisol. Many builders use it for matched accessories too.
This color is available in Automotive Paint & Aerosol Spray Cans as well.
Choose basecoat when you have a spray gun. Pick aerosol spray when you want a simpler setup.
Both options keep the same pearl character. Consistent color helps when you paint multiple bodies.
Bright accents pair well with this pearl gray. Try neon stripes, bright wheels, or crisp sponsor logos.
This project uses an Alpha Custom Color basecoat. A special binder helps pearl suspension and control.
Mix the basecoat 1:1 with an AR-30xx reducer. This supports smooth flow and even coverage.
Use AP-7541 DTM Primer-Sealer for adhesion and speed. Finish with AC-4521 HS Glamour Clearcoat for gloss and UV protection.
That system helps reduce chips and dullness. Gunpowder Gray paint looks deeper with a strong clearcoat.
Project Step-by-Step Guide
Use these steps to recreate the look. Prep work drives most of the final shine.
- Complete prep, body work, primer, and sanding using our tutorials.
- Block-sand exterior panels with 320 grit sandpaper.
- Scuff tight areas with a red scuff pad.
- Blow off dust and wipe with wax & grease remover.
- Paint jambs first, if needed. Wait 24 hours.
- Re-mask and wipe with anti-static wax & grease remover.
- Spray one medium wet coat of AP-7541 DTM Primer-Sealer.
- Mix sealer at a 4:1:1 ratio.
- Use a 1.4 mm tip for the sealer coat.
- After it dries to touch, wait one hour.
- Spray basecoat over the sealer. Apply 2 to 4 coats.
- Wait until the basecoat is dry to touch.
- After the last coat, wait 45 minutes.
- Spray 2 to 3 coats of AC-4521 HS Glamour Clearcoat.
- Mix clearcoat at a 2:1 ratio.
- Recoat when the previous coat feels tacky.
- Let it cure for 12 hours in ventilation.
- Unmask, assemble, and enjoy your RC body.
Want this exact finish on your next shell? Grab Gunpowder Gray Solid Pearl and start spraying.
Follow us on Instagram and Tommy Knows Paint for more builds.
Gunpowder Gray Solid Pearl RC Car Paint FAQs
What does Gunpowder Gray paint look like on an RC body?
Gunpowder Gray paint is a medium gray with a fine pearl. It adds shimmer without looking busy.
The finish stays clean under track lights. Sunlight adds extra pearl movement.
How many coats should I spray for Gunpowder Gray paint?
Most bodies need 2 to 4 light coats for coverage. Let each coat flash until dry to touch.
Light coats help the pearl lay even. Heavy coats can shift pearl and look blotchy.
Can beginners get good results with Gunpowder Gray paint?
Yes, the neutral tone is forgiving for first builds. Use steady passes and consistent overlap.
Keep your distance consistent. Give proper flash time between coats.
What primer and clearcoat work well with Gunpowder Gray paint?
Use a compatible primer-sealer for adhesion. Then apply basecoat and finish with a durable clearcoat.
AP-7541 and AC-4521 are a strong pairing. They help maintain gloss and protection.
Can I use Gunpowder Gray paint beyond RC car bodies?
Yes. Use it in automotive paint systems and epoxy resin projects.
It also works in nail polish and plastisol. Matching parts becomes much easier.
